You got an iPod! It's a great gadget, and you really like the smooth interface, the high-quality sound, the amount of storage you've got for your files, and the way you can keep pictures and documents on it. Hey--you did know that, right? You can open your iPod on your laptop just like a CD or a flash drive, and drag your other files right onto it.

Using iPod accessories, you can do even more with your iPod. However, with all of the choices that come up when you search the internet for "iPod accessories,"how do you find the right ones? How can you find the iPod add ons and replacement parts that you want, and how do you determine whether an item is compatible with the device you own? The best test is to try including your iPod's specific model name and generation in your search.

What can be purchased? Only certain parts are truly replaceable, the battery, the screen and the headphones. You will only care to replace the battery or the screen (during the warranty period be sure to send the iPod to the maker for adjustments or repairs) on these. The quality of your iPod can be greatly enhanced by buying new headphones, especially if you are careful to pay at least a modest sum (not too cheap). But, be cautious about sites that promise mystical capabilities of their sound equipment.

There is wide variety of iPod accessories on the market today. Look for things like armband holders to make keeping your tunes with you while you work out easier, to rubber or leather skins that protect the iPod from bumping or dropping, to plastic films that keep it from getting scratched. Another item that has been around for a long time is an iPod docking station. These portable systems with speakers let you turn your iPod into a stereo system. Even automobile manufacturers are making it easy to hook up your device directly to the car with a built-in connection.

And don't forget the bevy of ready-made electronic add ons from mileage trackers for runners to DJ mixing tables. Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be a GPS receiver, though. Oddly, the best place to see the quality stuff is in the manufacturer's website store, though you may want to price-compare with other places on the net before you commit yourself to buying. You might even stumble upon something cool.

Would you like to discover a strange new world of electronics? Do an Internet search for "iPod hacking." You will find our strange things like how to replace the operating system of an iPod with something else, and ways to replace parts of the inside that will make major improvements in the sound quality. Your warranty will be void if you start messing around, so don't take chances unless you know what you are doing. Have fun and be careful!

For more information on IPOD accessories try visiting http://all-things-ipod.info, a website that specializes in providing helpful ipod tips, advice and resources to include and more.